Max impact

Jake Wood reprises his role as Walford's Max Branning and he's set to shake up Albert Square

- WORDS: NIKKI ONAFUYE

Of course, Max returning to the Square means revisiting his chequered past. Stacey Slater, played by Lacey Turner, will always be tied to Max after their notorious affair. And while Stacey is set to take an extended break from the soap, Jake teases that their paths may well cross before she goes.

Unfinished business? "Undoubtedly yes," he said with a knowing smile. "They will always be connected, regardless of what they do."

For Jake, coming back to the show was a no-brainer. After spending time with his family - his eldest child is now at university and another is taking A-levels - the timing finally felt right.